Legislative Update

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is tasked with providing security at airport checkpoints. Prior to screening, the TSA requires airline passengers to empty their pockets. In 2012, the more than 700 million airline passengers transported in the United State left behind $531,395 in loose change at airport security checkpoints. Under current law, TSA is required to apply these unclaimed funds towards civil aviation security.

 

Recently, the House of Representatives considered the  TSA Loose Change Act (H.R. 1095). This legislation would require the TSA to transfer unclaimed money recovered at airport security checkpoints to nonprofit organizations which provide places of rest and recuperation at airports for military personnel and their families. I am pleased this bill, which passed the House by a voice vote on December 3, 2013, would direct these funds to assist members of our Armed Forces rather than supplement the TSA's budget.

 

Currently, H.R. 1095 awaits action in the Senate. Whether by serving abroad or protecting us at home, our military forces make sacrifices for all Americans. As the grandson of a veteran and co-chairman of the Congressional Rural Veterans Caucus, rest assured I will continue working to ensure our nation's servicemembers and their families receive the support they deserve.

 

For more information on this issue or to receive additional legislative updates, please visit http://adriansmith.house.gov .

 

Sincerely, 

 
ADRIAN SMITH
Member of Congress